Overunning clutch spring

Abstract

Squared-ends are provided in an overrunning clutch spring by notching the end of the tube stock; cutting the endmost coil on a lead equal to the cutter diameter (D) so that it varies in thickness from W/2 at its end to 3W/2, where (W) is its desired thickness; and cutting subsequent coils on a lead equal to cutter diameter plus desired coil thickness; and compressing the spring. Notches (70, 72) resulting from the process are advantageously positioned for enhancing the centrifugal balance of the spring.

I claim: 
     
       1. A method for producing an overrunning clutch spring from tube stock so that in a final, compressed state the spring ends are square, comprising: axially notching the tube stock with a cutter having a diameter (D);   cutting the first coil on a lead equal to the diameter (D) so that it varies in thickness from W/2 at its end (44) to 3W/2, where (W) is the desired thickness of the first coil; and   cutting subsequent coils on a lead equal to the diameter (D) plus the desired coil thickness.   
     
     
       2. A method for balancing an overrunning clutch spring that has a central crossover gap, comprising: providing squared ends for the spring according to the method of claim 1;   positioning the notches (70, 72) resulting from the squared ends opposite the crossover gap (52).